Blog

We recently received a message from Larissa Phillips, a tutor in New York City and the author of City Stories, an illustrated collection of leveled, decodable stories written for the adult beginning reader. She gives an interesting perspective on the necessity of low-literacy programs and the importance of reading materials designed for those who want to move forward and learn how to read.

Financial literacy is the ability to use knowledge and skills to manage financial resources effectively for a lifetime of financial well-being. According to Money Management International, most consumers experience some level of financial illiteracy that significantly impacts their everyday lives.

While talking with Ruth Colvin, co-founder of ProLiteracy, she has said volunteering will “change your life as well as change the life of a student.” Besides the fact that volunteer tutors have the ability to better the lives of students, their families, and have the satisfaction of knowing that they improved their community, how else does volunteering benefit someone? According to the American Psychological Association, volunteering might increase your lifespan. “People who volunteer may live longer than those who don't, as long as their reasons for volunteering are to help others rather than themselves."

We truly lost an icon in literacy with the passing of Barbara Bush at 92. While there have been other champions for literacy, Barbara Bush was in a league of her own. Mrs. Bush was different than others who have promoted the value of literacy and importance of reading—she always went further. Not content with being the nation’s great “cheerleader” for literacy, as she used to say, she took it a step beyond by seeking support and new allies in the effort to expand literacy programs everywhere.